US20020177464A1 - Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020177464A1 US20020177464A1 US09/976,834 US97683401A US2002177464A1 US 20020177464 A1 US20020177464 A1 US 20020177464A1 US 97683401 A US97683401 A US 97683401A US 2002177464 A1 US2002177464 A1 US 2002177464A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- keys
- functions
- mobile communication
- communication device
- cover lid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/72—Mobile telephones; Cordless telephones, i.e. devices for establishing wireless links to base stations without route selection
- H04M1/724—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones
- H04M1/72466—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with selection means, e.g. keys, having functions defined by the mode or the status of the device
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
- H04M1/0202—Portable telephone sets, e.g. cordless phones, mobile phones or bar type handsets
- H04M1/0206—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings
- H04M1/0208—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings characterized by the relative motions of the body parts
- H04M1/0214—Foldable telephones, i.e. with body parts pivoting to an open position around an axis parallel to the plane they define in closed position
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
- H04M1/0202—Portable telephone sets, e.g. cordless phones, mobile phones or bar type handsets
- H04M1/0206—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings
- H04M1/0241—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings using relative motion of the body parts to change the operational status of the telephone set, e.g. switching on/off, answering incoming call
- H04M1/0245—Portable telephones comprising a plurality of mechanically joined movable body parts, e.g. hinged housings using relative motion of the body parts to change the operational status of the telephone set, e.g. switching on/off, answering incoming call using open/close detection
Definitions
- the present invention is related to mobile communication devices and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for representing the keys of a keypad in a mobile communication device.
- Mobile communication devices such as smart phones, smart pagers, personal digital assistants, and the like, can be used for both telephony applications as well as computing and networking applications (e.g., via the Applications Protocol).
- Some of these mobile communication devices typically include a cover lid having a keypad with a plurality of keys thereon. When the cover lid is closed, the keys can be used to dial telephone numbers, receive a call, and to perform other telephony related functions. Flipping open the cover lid uncovers a touch screen and puts the mobile communication device into the computing and networking mode wherein a variety of applications such as Web browsing, sending e-mail, and surfing the Internet may be performed.
- One way of overcoming the above difficulty is to display the needed keys directly on the touch screen when the mobile communication device is in the browsing mode. The user may then touch the appropriate touch screen key to achieve the desired function or value. A different set of touch screen keys may be presented to the user depending on the particular mode or application being used. However, the touch screen on most mobile communication devices is limited in size. It is therefore preferable to be able to use as much of the touch screen area as possible to display information instead.
- the present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for representing the keys of a keypad in a mobile communication device.
- the keys are capable of representing different values or functions based on the occurrence of a event.
- a detector is used to detect the occurrence of the event. Depending on whether the event is detected, the keys are assigned to represent a different set of values or functions.
- the invention is related to a method of assigning functions to be represented by the keys of a keypad on a cover lid of a mobile communication device.
- the method comprises detecting whether the cover lid is in a first position or a second position, assigning a first set of functions to be represented by the keys when the cover lid is detected in the first position, and assigning a second set of functions to be represented by the keys when the cover lid is detected in the second position.
- the invention is related to a mobile communication device having a keypad and keys mounted on a cover lid.
- the mobile communication device comprises a memory unit capable of storing a first set of functions and a second set of functions to be represented by the keys, and a detector unit capable of detecting a movement of the cover lid from a first position to a second position.
- a control unit is connected to the memory unit and the detector unit. The control unit is configured to assign the first set of functions to the keys when the cover lid is detected in the first position, and to assign the second set of functions to the keys when the cover lid is detected in the second position.
- the invention is related to a keypad for a mobile communication device.
- the keypad comprises a plurality of mechanical keys mounted on the keypad and capable of performing a first set of functions and a second set of functions.
- the plurality of mechanical keys are configured to perform the first set of functions when a predetermined event has not occurred, and to perform the second set of functions when the predetermined event has occurred.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention
- FIG. 2 illustrates the mobile communication device of FIG. 1 wherein the cover lid is in the open position
- FIG. 3 illustrates another mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention
- FIG. 4 illustrates yet another mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 5 illustrates yet another mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention
- FIG. 6 illustrates a functional block diagram of a mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method according to some embodiments of the invention.
- Embodiments of the invention provide an improved method and apparatus for representing the keys of a keypad in a mobile communication device.
- the invention is directed to a mobile communication device having a keypad and a plurality of keys mounted thereon.
- a detector unit detects whether a predetermined event has occurred and provides an appropriate output signal to a control unit of the mobile communications device.
- a memory unit of the mobile communication device stores the values or functions that are to be represented by the keys. The stored values or functions are assigned to the keys by the control unit based on whether the predetermined event has occurred.
- the mobile communication device 100 may be a smart phone, smart pager, personal digital assistant, and the like, that can be used for wireless telephony and computing and networking.
- An antenna 102 on the mobile communication device 100 facilitates transmission and reception of radio frequency signals to and from a wireless access network such as the Global System for Mobile communication (GSM).
- GSM Global System for Mobile communication
- a body structure 104 of the mobile communication device 100 houses a display unit 106 that is configured to display various types of information based on the operating mode of the mobile communication device 100 .
- the display unit 106 as shown in FIG. 1, is partially covered and protected by a cover lid 108 attached to the body structure 104 .
- a hinge 110 secures the cover lid 108 to the body structure 104 and allows the cover lid 108 to be selectively opened and closed by a user.
- a keypad having a plurality of mechanical keys, one of which is labeled here at 112 is mounted on the outer face of the cover lid 108 . Note that the keys 112 are shown here in a raised or 3 -D configuration to indicate the presence of actual keys 112 , as opposed to mere key positions, which will be described later herein.
- the keys 112 of the keypad face the user and are readily accessible to facilitate various applications. For example, the user may dial a telephone number by simply pressing the appropriate number keys 0-9, * and #. Menu features and other options of the mobile communication device 100 may be viewed on the display unit 106 by pressing the appropriate Up, Left, Down, and Right navigation keys.
- the Y and N keys allow the user to receive and terminate calls as well as make menu and service selections. It should be noted that the keys 112 shown in FIG. 1 are exemplary only, and that the invention is not to be limited thereto.
- keys 112 may be used as needed.
- the keys 112 of the keypad may be alphabetic keys (e.g., A, B, C, etc.), or the keys 112 may include both letters and numbers.
- FIG. 2 illustrates the mobile communication device 100 with the cover lid 108 in the open position.
- the display unit 106 is now fully uncovered, and the mobile communication device 100 is ready to be used for, for example, computing and networking applications.
- a graphical layout or template 200 of the keys 112 can be seen on an inner face of the cover lid 108 , in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
- the layout or template 200 shows the exact position 202 of the keys 112 as they are actually and physically located on the other side (outer face) of the cover lid 108 .
- the layout or template 200 shows the values or functions that are represented by the keys 112 when the mobile communication device 100 is operating in the computing and networking mode, that is, when the cover lid 108 is in the open position.
- Such an arrangement not only helps the user to reach the desired key, but a set of values or functions more in line with the intuitive expectations of the user may also be assigned to the keys 112 , as shown in the layout or template 200 .
- the positions of the keys 112 have been rotated by 180 degrees relative to the position of the keys 112 when the cover lid 108 is in the closed position (see FIG. 1), based on the assigned values. Specifically, the Up and the Down navigation keys have been swapped, as well as the first and fourth rows, and second and third rows of the numerical keys. The Left and Right navigation keys, and the Y and N keys retain their original representation.
- FIG. 3 illustrates another mobile communication device 300 having another layout or template 302 according to some embodiments of the invention.
- the layout or template 302 shows the position 304 of the keys 112 as having been rotated by 90 degrees relative to the position of the keys 112 when the cover lid 108 is in the closed position (see FIG. 1), based on the assigned values.
- This arrangement allows the keys 112 to be aligned with the display unit 106 , which has also been rotated by 90 degrees.
- Note in the layout or template 302 of FIG. 3 that only a portion of the keys 112 are being used in the open cover lid mode. Specifically, the *, 0, and # keys are omitted here to indicate they are not being used.
- any key may be omitted or included in the layout or template 302 as needed depending on the particular requirements of the application. Thus, in some embodiments, only the navigation keys may be used, or only the number keys may be used.
- pointing devices such as joysticks or trackballs may be used to navigate through the menu features and options of the mobile communication instead of the navigation keys.
- the values and functions of the pointing devices may be assigned and reassigned in a similar manner as the navigation keys.
- the graphical layout or template may be a printed pattern on the inner face of the cover lid 108 .
- the layout or template may be an illuminated pattern that is turned on only when the cover lid 108 is in the open position.
- the layout or template may be selectively illuminated by the user upon pressing an appropriate actuator (not shown).
- the values or function to be represented by the keys 112 when the cover lid 108 is in the open position may be indicated in the form of tactile indicators 402 such as bumps or raised portions on the surface of the keys. As can be seen in the close-up of the number 7 key, three raised bumps indicate that this key represents the number 3 when the mobile communication device 400 is operating in the computing and networking mode (i.e., when the cover lid 108 is open).
- the tactile indicators 402 instead of a simple bump count, may be in the form of raised symbols or characters such as Braille characters and the like.
- the templates are obviously helpful, they are in no way necessary or required to practice the invention.
- the values or functions of the keys are reassigned upon the occurrence of some predetermined event (e.g., opening the cover lid), but without the use of the templates to indicate the reassigned values, functions, or positions.
- some predetermined event e.g., opening the cover lid
- Such an arrangement allows the user to use the inner surface of the cover lid 108 for other purposes such as when the mobile communication device is to be used as a notepad or whiteboard.
- the mobile communication device 5 does not have a cover lid at all.
- the mechanical keys 508 may be mounted directly on the body structure 504 of the communication device 500 instead. In that case, reassignment of the values or functions of the keys may occur when a certain key has been pressed, or when several keys are pressed. Alternatively, reassignment of the values or functions of the keys 508 may occur when certain modes or applications of the mobile communication device have been activated. In some embodiments, a pogo pin may be used as the mechanism that triggers the reassignment of the keys 508 instead of one of the keys.
- FIG. 6 A functional block diagram of a mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention is shown in FIG. 6.
- the mobile communication device 600 has a number of functional components including a detector 602 , a display unit 604 , a memory unit 606 , a keypad 608 , and a control unit 610 , all interconnected as shown.
- a detector 602 a detector 602 , a display unit 604 , a memory unit 606 , a keypad 608 , and a control unit 610 , all interconnected as shown.
- a detector 602 a detector 602 , a display unit 604 , a memory unit 606 , a keypad 608 , and a control unit 610 , all interconnected as shown.
- a control unit 610 all interconnected as shown.
- the invention is not to be limited to the above functional components, and that other functional components may be added as needed.
- the detector 602 is capable of detecting whether a certain event has happened to trigger reassigning the values or functions of the keys on the mobile communication device.
- the detector 602 is an electronic switch mounted in the hinge of the mobile communication device that detects when a cover lid is closed or open and outputs an appropriate signal.
- the electronic switch may be connected to one or more of the keys of the mobile communication device.
- the detector 602 may include circuitry connected to a pogo pin and configured to detect the pressing and releasing thereof.
- the detector 602 may include a software algorithm that is executed to detect when a certain key is pressed, or when certain modes or applications are initiated.
- the display unit 604 may be any display unit 604 , such as a liquid crystal display, that is capable of displaying graphical and textual information for the mobile communication device.
- the keypad 608 is a conventional keypad 608 having a plurality of mechanical keys similar to the keypads found in commonly available mobile communication devices.
- the memory unit 606 is configured to store data and information needed for the operation of the mobile communication device 600 .
- the memory unit 506 includes a key table 612 having at least a first set of values or functions (Set 1) and a second set of values or functions (Set 2) to be represented by the keys corresponding to whether a certain event has occurred.
- each key has a corresponding value or function to be assigned depending on whether the triggering event has occurred, for example, whether the cover lid is closed or open. In the specific embodiment show in FIG.
- the second set of values or functions to be assigned when the cover lid is open results in the position of the keys being rotated by 180 degrees relative to the position of the keys when the first set of values is to be assigned (i.e., when the cover lid is closed).
- Examples of the memory unit 606 include RAM, ROM, magnetic media, optical media, and the like.
- the control unit 610 has primary responsibility for the operation of the mobile communication device.
- the control unit 610 is configured to assign either the first set of values or functions, or the second set of values or functions, to be represented by the keys depending on the detection by the detector 602 .
- the control unit 610 assigns the first set to the keys, and when the cover lid is detected to be in the open position, the control unit 610 assigns the second set to the keys.
- Examples of the control unit 610 include a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an ASIC, and other similar control units.
- FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method 700 for assigning values or functions to be represented by the keys of a keypad on a mobile communication device.
- the method begins at step 701 wherein ongoing detection of certain events is performed. A determination is made at step 702 as to whether the event has happened (e.g., the cover lid has been closed). If no, a first set of values or functions is maintained as being assigned to be represented by the keys at step 703 . If yes, a second set of values or functions is assigned to be represented by the keys at step 704 . In either case, the method returns to step 701 after the key assignments have been maintained or made in order to continue to detect for the occurrence of the events.
- embodiments of the invention provide an improved method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device.
- Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that variations and modifications from the described embodiments may be derived without departing from the scope of the invention. All numerical values disclosed herein are approximate values only regardless of whether that term was used in describing the values.
- the steps of any methods described herein can be practiced in any order or sequence, and some steps can be omitted, combined into a single step, or divided into several sub-steps. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations and modifications as falling within the scope of the invention.
Abstract
Description
- The present application for patent is related to, claims priority from, and incorporates by reference the subject matter disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/293,206, entitled “Browserphone with Flip,” filed May 23, 2001 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention is related to mobile communication devices and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for representing the keys of a keypad in a mobile communication device.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Mobile communication devices, such as smart phones, smart pagers, personal digital assistants, and the like, can be used for both telephony applications as well as computing and networking applications (e.g., via the Applications Protocol). Some of these mobile communication devices typically include a cover lid having a keypad with a plurality of keys thereon. When the cover lid is closed, the keys can be used to dial telephone numbers, receive a call, and to perform other telephony related functions. Flipping open the cover lid uncovers a touch screen and puts the mobile communication device into the computing and networking mode wherein a variety of applications such as Web browsing, sending e-mail, and surfing the Internet may be performed.
- Unfortunately, when the cover lid is in the open position, the keypad faces away from the user, making it difficult for the user to use the keys for browsing or other computing and networking applications. For one thing, the user is required to blindly reach around the other side of the cover lid in order to press the keys. Even assuming the user manages to press the desired key, the expected functions and values represented by the keys have been transposed relative to when the cover lid is closed. For example, when the cover lid is open, the navigation key that the user intuitively expects to be the Up key is actually the Down key.
- One way of overcoming the above difficulty is to display the needed keys directly on the touch screen when the mobile communication device is in the browsing mode. The user may then touch the appropriate touch screen key to achieve the desired function or value. A different set of touch screen keys may be presented to the user depending on the particular mode or application being used. However, the touch screen on most mobile communication devices is limited in size. It is therefore preferable to be able to use as much of the touch screen area as possible to display information instead.
- Accordingly, it is desirable to be able to provide an improved method and apparatus for representing the keys in a keypad in a mobile communication device.
- The present invention provides an improved method and apparatus for representing the keys of a keypad in a mobile communication device. The keys are capable of representing different values or functions based on the occurrence of a event. A detector is used to detect the occurrence of the event. Depending on whether the event is detected, the keys are assigned to represent a different set of values or functions.
- In general, in one aspect, the invention is related to a method of assigning functions to be represented by the keys of a keypad on a cover lid of a mobile communication device. The method comprises detecting whether the cover lid is in a first position or a second position, assigning a first set of functions to be represented by the keys when the cover lid is detected in the first position, and assigning a second set of functions to be represented by the keys when the cover lid is detected in the second position.
- In general, in another aspect, the invention is related to a mobile communication device having a keypad and keys mounted on a cover lid. The mobile communication device comprises a memory unit capable of storing a first set of functions and a second set of functions to be represented by the keys, and a detector unit capable of detecting a movement of the cover lid from a first position to a second position. A control unit is connected to the memory unit and the detector unit. The control unit is configured to assign the first set of functions to the keys when the cover lid is detected in the first position, and to assign the second set of functions to the keys when the cover lid is detected in the second position.
- In general, in still another aspect, the invention is related to a keypad for a mobile communication device. The keypad comprises a plurality of mechanical keys mounted on the keypad and capable of performing a first set of functions and a second set of functions. The plurality of mechanical keys are configured to perform the first set of functions when a predetermined event has not occurred, and to perform the second set of functions when the predetermined event has occurred.
- A more complete understanding of the present invention may be had by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 illustrates a mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention;
- FIG. 2 illustrates the mobile communication device of FIG. 1 wherein the cover lid is in the open position;
- FIG. 3 illustrates another mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention;
- FIG. 4 illustrates yet another mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention;
- FIG. 5 illustrates yet another mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention;
- FIG. 6 illustrates a functional block diagram of a mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention; and
- FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method according to some embodiments of the invention.
- Following is a detailed description of the drawings wherein reference numerals for like and similar elements are carried forward.
- Embodiments of the invention provide an improved method and apparatus for representing the keys of a keypad in a mobile communication device. In some embodiments, the invention is directed to a mobile communication device having a keypad and a plurality of keys mounted thereon. A detector unit detects whether a predetermined event has occurred and provides an appropriate output signal to a control unit of the mobile communications device. A memory unit of the mobile communication device stores the values or functions that are to be represented by the keys. The stored values or functions are assigned to the keys by the control unit based on whether the predetermined event has occurred.
- Referring now to FIG. 1, an exemplary
mobile communication device 100 according to some embodiments of the invention is shown. Themobile communication device 100 may be a smart phone, smart pager, personal digital assistant, and the like, that can be used for wireless telephony and computing and networking. Anantenna 102 on themobile communication device 100 facilitates transmission and reception of radio frequency signals to and from a wireless access network such as the Global System for Mobile communication (GSM). The details of this aspect of themobile communication device 100 are well known and will not be described here except to say that themobile communication device 100 is capable of accessing one or more wireless access networks. - A
body structure 104 of themobile communication device 100 houses adisplay unit 106 that is configured to display various types of information based on the operating mode of themobile communication device 100. Thedisplay unit 106, as shown in FIG. 1, is partially covered and protected by acover lid 108 attached to thebody structure 104. Ahinge 110 secures thecover lid 108 to thebody structure 104 and allows thecover lid 108 to be selectively opened and closed by a user. A keypad having a plurality of mechanical keys, one of which is labeled here at 112, is mounted on the outer face of thecover lid 108. Note that thekeys 112 are shown here in a raised or 3-D configuration to indicate the presence ofactual keys 112, as opposed to mere key positions, which will be described later herein. - When the
cover lid 108 is in the closed position, thekeys 112 of the keypad face the user and are readily accessible to facilitate various applications. For example, the user may dial a telephone number by simply pressing the appropriate number keys 0-9, * and #. Menu features and other options of themobile communication device 100 may be viewed on thedisplay unit 106 by pressing the appropriate Up, Left, Down, and Right navigation keys. The Y and N keys allow the user to receive and terminate calls as well as make menu and service selections. It should be noted that thekeys 112 shown in FIG. 1 are exemplary only, and that the invention is not to be limited thereto. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that additional orfewer keys 112, as well as keys with corresponding functions but different labels, or keys with entirely different functions, may be used as needed. For example, instead of number keys 0-9, thekeys 112 of the keypad may be alphabetic keys (e.g., A, B, C, etc.), or thekeys 112 may include both letters and numbers. - FIG. 2 illustrates the
mobile communication device 100 with thecover lid 108 in the open position. Thedisplay unit 106 is now fully uncovered, and themobile communication device 100 is ready to be used for, for example, computing and networking applications. With thecover lid 108 opened thusly, a graphical layout ortemplate 200 of thekeys 112 can be seen on an inner face of thecover lid 108, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The layout ortemplate 200 shows theexact position 202 of thekeys 112 as they are actually and physically located on the other side (outer face) of thecover lid 108. Moreover, the layout ortemplate 200 shows the values or functions that are represented by thekeys 112 when themobile communication device 100 is operating in the computing and networking mode, that is, when thecover lid 108 is in the open position. Such an arrangement not only helps the user to reach the desired key, but a set of values or functions more in line with the intuitive expectations of the user may also be assigned to thekeys 112, as shown in the layout ortemplate 200. - In this exemplary embodiment, the positions of the
keys 112 have been rotated by 180 degrees relative to the position of thekeys 112 when thecover lid 108 is in the closed position (see FIG. 1), based on the assigned values. Specifically, the Up and the Down navigation keys have been swapped, as well as the first and fourth rows, and second and third rows of the numerical keys. The Left and Right navigation keys, and the Y and N keys retain their original representation. - FIG. 3 illustrates another
mobile communication device 300 having another layout ortemplate 302 according to some embodiments of the invention. The layout ortemplate 302 shows theposition 304 of thekeys 112 as having been rotated by 90 degrees relative to the position of thekeys 112 when thecover lid 108 is in the closed position (see FIG. 1), based on the assigned values. This arrangement allows thekeys 112 to be aligned with thedisplay unit 106, which has also been rotated by 90 degrees. Note in the layout ortemplate 302 of FIG. 3 that only a portion of thekeys 112 are being used in the open cover lid mode. Specifically, the *, 0, and # keys are omitted here to indicate they are not being used. In general, any key may be omitted or included in the layout ortemplate 302 as needed depending on the particular requirements of the application. Thus, in some embodiments, only the navigation keys may be used, or only the number keys may be used. - In some embodiments, pointing devices (not shown) such as joysticks or trackballs may be used to navigate through the menu features and options of the mobile communication instead of the navigation keys. In these embodiments, the values and functions of the pointing devices may be assigned and reassigned in a similar manner as the navigation keys.
- In some embodiments, the graphical layout or template may be a printed pattern on the inner face of the
cover lid 108. In other embodiments, however, the layout or template may be an illuminated pattern that is turned on only when thecover lid 108 is in the open position. In still other embodiments, the layout or template may be selectively illuminated by the user upon pressing an appropriate actuator (not shown). - Referring now to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, instead of a graphical layout or template, the values or function to be represented by the
keys 112 when thecover lid 108 is in the open position may be indicated in the form oftactile indicators 402 such as bumps or raised portions on the surface of the keys. As can be seen in the close-up of thenumber 7 key, three raised bumps indicate that this key represents thenumber 3 when themobile communication device 400 is operating in the computing and networking mode (i.e., when thecover lid 108 is open). In some embodiments, instead of a simple bump count, thetactile indicators 402 may be in the form of raised symbols or characters such as Braille characters and the like. - While the templates (and tactile indicators) are obviously helpful, they are in no way necessary or required to practice the invention. Thus, in some embodiments, the values or functions of the keys are reassigned upon the occurrence of some predetermined event (e.g., opening the cover lid), but without the use of the templates to indicate the reassigned values, functions, or positions. Such an arrangement allows the user to use the inner surface of the
cover lid 108 for other purposes such as when the mobile communication device is to be used as a notepad or whiteboard. - Moreover, in some embodiments, the
mobile communication device 5 does not have a cover lid at all. As shown in FIG. 5, themechanical keys 508 may be mounted directly on thebody structure 504 of thecommunication device 500 instead. In that case, reassignment of the values or functions of the keys may occur when a certain key has been pressed, or when several keys are pressed. Alternatively, reassignment of the values or functions of thekeys 508 may occur when certain modes or applications of the mobile communication device have been activated. In some embodiments, a pogo pin may be used as the mechanism that triggers the reassignment of thekeys 508 instead of one of the keys. Finally, although the foregoing features were described with respect to mobile communication devices without cover lids, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the described features are equally applicable to mobile communication devices that have cover lids. - A functional block diagram of a mobile communication device according to some embodiments of the invention is shown in FIG. 6. The
mobile communication device 600 has a number of functional components including adetector 602, adisplay unit 604, amemory unit 606, akeypad 608, and acontrol unit 610, all interconnected as shown. Of course, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the invention is not to be limited to the above functional components, and that other functional components may be added as needed. - The
detector 602 is capable of detecting whether a certain event has happened to trigger reassigning the values or functions of the keys on the mobile communication device. In some embodiments, thedetector 602 is an electronic switch mounted in the hinge of the mobile communication device that detects when a cover lid is closed or open and outputs an appropriate signal. In other embodiments, the electronic switch may be connected to one or more of the keys of the mobile communication device. In still other embodiments, thedetector 602 may include circuitry connected to a pogo pin and configured to detect the pressing and releasing thereof. In still other embodiments, thedetector 602 may include a software algorithm that is executed to detect when a certain key is pressed, or when certain modes or applications are initiated. - The
display unit 604 may be anydisplay unit 604, such as a liquid crystal display, that is capable of displaying graphical and textual information for the mobile communication device. - The
keypad 608 is aconventional keypad 608 having a plurality of mechanical keys similar to the keypads found in commonly available mobile communication devices. Thememory unit 606 is configured to store data and information needed for the operation of themobile communication device 600. In some embodiments, thememory unit 506 includes a key table 612 having at least a first set of values or functions (Set 1) and a second set of values or functions (Set 2) to be represented by the keys corresponding to whether a certain event has occurred. As can be seen in the blow-up of the key table 612, each key has a corresponding value or function to be assigned depending on whether the triggering event has occurred, for example, whether the cover lid is closed or open. In the specific embodiment show in FIG. 6, the second set of values or functions to be assigned when the cover lid is open results in the position of the keys being rotated by 180 degrees relative to the position of the keys when the first set of values is to be assigned (i.e., when the cover lid is closed). Examples of thememory unit 606 include RAM, ROM, magnetic media, optical media, and the like. - The
control unit 610 has primary responsibility for the operation of the mobile communication device. In some embodiments, thecontrol unit 610 is configured to assign either the first set of values or functions, or the second set of values or functions, to be represented by the keys depending on the detection by thedetector 602. Thus, for example, when the cover lid is detected to be in the closed position, thecontrol unit 610 assigns the first set to the keys, and when the cover lid is detected to be in the open position, thecontrol unit 610 assigns the second set to the keys. Examples of thecontrol unit 610 include a microcontroller, a microprocessor, an ASIC, and other similar control units. - FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a
method 700 for assigning values or functions to be represented by the keys of a keypad on a mobile communication device. The method begins atstep 701 wherein ongoing detection of certain events is performed. A determination is made atstep 702 as to whether the event has happened (e.g., the cover lid has been closed). If no, a first set of values or functions is maintained as being assigned to be represented by the keys atstep 703. If yes, a second set of values or functions is assigned to be represented by the keys atstep 704. In either case, the method returns to step 701 after the key assignments have been maintained or made in order to continue to detect for the occurrence of the events. - As demonstrated above, embodiments of the invention provide an improved method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that variations and modifications from the described embodiments may be derived without departing from the scope of the invention. All numerical values disclosed herein are approximate values only regardless of whether that term was used in describing the values. Moreover, unless otherwise specified, the steps of any methods described herein can be practiced in any order or sequence, and some steps can be omitted, combined into a single step, or divided into several sub-steps. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations and modifications as falling within the scope of the invention.
Claims (26)
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/976,834 US7054440B2 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2001-10-12 | Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device |
PCT/EP2002/005364 WO2002096073A2 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2002-05-15 | Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device |
AT02745296T ATE406032T1 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2002-05-15 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR RECONFIGURATION OF A KEYBOARD IN A MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE |
EP02745296A EP1393534B1 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2002-05-15 | Method and apparatus for keypad reconfiguration in a mobile communication device |
AU2002316906A AU2002316906A1 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2002-05-15 | Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device |
DE60228440T DE60228440D1 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2002-05-15 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR RECONFIGURING A KEYBOARD IN A MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US29320601P | 2001-05-23 | 2001-05-23 | |
US09/976,834 US7054440B2 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2001-10-12 | Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020177464A1 true US20020177464A1 (en) | 2002-11-28 |
US7054440B2 US7054440B2 (en) | 2006-05-30 |
Family
ID=26967815
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/976,834 Expired - Fee Related US7054440B2 (en) | 2001-05-23 | 2001-10-12 | Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US7054440B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1393534B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE406032T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2002316906A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE60228440D1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2002096073A2 (en) |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20030003956A1 (en) * | 2001-07-02 | 2003-01-02 | Tarmo Maenpaa | Complementing a portable telecommunication device with notepad capability |
US20030214535A1 (en) * | 2002-05-14 | 2003-11-20 | Motorola, Inc. | User interface for a messaging device and method |
US20040116167A1 (en) * | 2002-08-02 | 2004-06-17 | Kazutaka Okuzako | Portable information processing apparatus |
US20050090288A1 (en) * | 2003-10-22 | 2005-04-28 | Josef Stohr | Mobile communication terminal with multi orientation user interface |
US20060116135A1 (en) * | 2003-10-09 | 2006-06-01 | Ure Michael J | Morphology-based text entry system |
US20060128438A1 (en) * | 2002-10-03 | 2006-06-15 | Henrik Balle | Mobile device for displaying information content |
US20060179365A1 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2006-08-10 | Nokia Corporation | Method and apparatus for efficient scanning and operation in a wireless system |
EP1715660A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2006-10-25 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Hinge apparatus and portable terminal having the same |
US20060268142A1 (en) * | 2005-05-30 | 2006-11-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Portable terminal having camera lens assembly |
US20070139533A1 (en) * | 2004-03-17 | 2007-06-21 | Sony Corporation | Electronic device and function assigning method |
CN109101118A (en) * | 2018-08-10 | 2018-12-28 | 山东超越数控电子股份有限公司 | It is a kind of to combine the method and apparatus for realizing shortcut key based on character keys |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CA2408331C (en) * | 2001-10-16 | 2008-11-18 | Research In Motion Limited | Handheld mobile communication device with repositionable display and inputs |
JP2003298699A (en) * | 2002-03-29 | 2003-10-17 | Nec Corp | Slide-type portable telephone set |
KR20050074268A (en) * | 2002-12-16 | 2005-07-18 | 마이크로소프트 코포레이션 | Systems and methods for interfacing with computer devices |
EP1453282A1 (en) * | 2003-02-25 | 2004-09-01 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Mobile terminal input device especially for text entry |
JP2005328204A (en) * | 2004-05-12 | 2005-11-24 | Pentax Corp | Digital camera and portable equipment |
US7274954B2 (en) * | 2004-06-21 | 2007-09-25 | Motorola, Inc. | Communication device including one or more electrical control buttons in an upper housing part |
US7489775B2 (en) * | 2004-11-24 | 2009-02-10 | Telepac Technology Inc. | Input method using standard numeric keypad |
US20080120559A1 (en) * | 2006-11-17 | 2008-05-22 | Microsoft Corporation | Switchable user interfaces |
Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5189632A (en) * | 1990-08-20 | 1993-02-23 | Oy Nokia Ab | Portable personal computer and mobile telephone device |
US5584054A (en) * | 1994-07-18 | 1996-12-10 | Motorola, Inc. | Communication device having a movable front cover for exposing a touch sensitive display |
US5715524A (en) * | 1995-02-06 | 1998-02-03 | Motorola, Inc. | Radio communication device with movable housing element control |
US5797089A (en) * | 1995-09-07 | 1998-08-18 | Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ) | Personal communications terminal having switches which independently energize a mobile telephone and a personal digital assistant |
US5987310A (en) * | 1996-06-27 | 1999-11-16 | Gray; Jason D. | Cellular phone |
US6038313A (en) * | 1997-11-20 | 2000-03-14 | Nortel Networks Corporation | Double sided keyboard for a telephone |
US6373397B1 (en) * | 1999-03-18 | 2002-04-16 | Lg Information & Communications, Ltd. | Apparatus and method for controlling back light in mobile telecommunication terminal |
US6445932B1 (en) * | 1996-02-23 | 2002-09-03 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd. | Multi-service mobile station |
US6526296B1 (en) * | 1998-06-02 | 2003-02-25 | Nokia Mobile Phones Limited | Electronic device and a control means |
US6542721B2 (en) * | 1999-10-11 | 2003-04-01 | Peter V. Boesen | Cellular telephone, personal digital assistant and pager unit |
US6549789B1 (en) * | 2000-04-28 | 2003-04-15 | Motorola Inc. | Portable electronic device with an adaptable user interface |
US6571086B1 (en) * | 1998-12-08 | 2003-05-27 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd. | Wireless communication device and a control means |
US6587675B1 (en) * | 1996-10-28 | 2003-07-01 | Therefore Limited | Hand-held computer and communications apparatus |
US6630925B1 (en) * | 2000-10-31 | 2003-10-07 | Nokia Corporation | Double-sided keyboard having two keymats and one activation mat |
US6704417B2 (en) * | 2000-03-14 | 2004-03-09 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Personal digital assistant/telephone combination device |
US6798882B2 (en) * | 1995-09-28 | 2004-09-28 | Nokia Mobile Phones Limited | Mobile station |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
AU2437497A (en) | 1996-04-03 | 1997-11-19 | Ericsson Inc. | Tactile keypad for touch sensitive screen |
FI114267B (en) | 1998-01-29 | 2004-09-15 | Nokia Corp | Electronic device and method for displaying information |
AU4700900A (en) | 1999-05-06 | 2000-11-21 | Qualcomm Incorporated | Two-pin connection for portable phone keypad |
WO2000079772A1 (en) | 1999-06-22 | 2000-12-28 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Operating element |
WO2001075580A2 (en) | 2000-04-04 | 2001-10-11 | Nokia Mobile Phones Limited | A method and apparatus for a dynamic keypad display |
-
2001
- 2001-10-12 US US09/976,834 patent/US7054440B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2002
- 2002-05-15 EP EP02745296A patent/EP1393534B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-05-15 WO PCT/EP2002/005364 patent/WO2002096073A2/en active IP Right Grant
- 2002-05-15 AU AU2002316906A patent/AU2002316906A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2002-05-15 DE DE60228440T patent/DE60228440D1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2002-05-15 AT AT02745296T patent/ATE406032T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Patent Citations (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5189632A (en) * | 1990-08-20 | 1993-02-23 | Oy Nokia Ab | Portable personal computer and mobile telephone device |
US5584054A (en) * | 1994-07-18 | 1996-12-10 | Motorola, Inc. | Communication device having a movable front cover for exposing a touch sensitive display |
US5715524A (en) * | 1995-02-06 | 1998-02-03 | Motorola, Inc. | Radio communication device with movable housing element control |
US5797089A (en) * | 1995-09-07 | 1998-08-18 | Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ) | Personal communications terminal having switches which independently energize a mobile telephone and a personal digital assistant |
US6798882B2 (en) * | 1995-09-28 | 2004-09-28 | Nokia Mobile Phones Limited | Mobile station |
US6445932B1 (en) * | 1996-02-23 | 2002-09-03 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd. | Multi-service mobile station |
US5987310A (en) * | 1996-06-27 | 1999-11-16 | Gray; Jason D. | Cellular phone |
US6587675B1 (en) * | 1996-10-28 | 2003-07-01 | Therefore Limited | Hand-held computer and communications apparatus |
US6038313A (en) * | 1997-11-20 | 2000-03-14 | Nortel Networks Corporation | Double sided keyboard for a telephone |
US6526296B1 (en) * | 1998-06-02 | 2003-02-25 | Nokia Mobile Phones Limited | Electronic device and a control means |
US6571086B1 (en) * | 1998-12-08 | 2003-05-27 | Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd. | Wireless communication device and a control means |
US6373397B1 (en) * | 1999-03-18 | 2002-04-16 | Lg Information & Communications, Ltd. | Apparatus and method for controlling back light in mobile telecommunication terminal |
US6542721B2 (en) * | 1999-10-11 | 2003-04-01 | Peter V. Boesen | Cellular telephone, personal digital assistant and pager unit |
US6704417B2 (en) * | 2000-03-14 | 2004-03-09 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Personal digital assistant/telephone combination device |
US6549789B1 (en) * | 2000-04-28 | 2003-04-15 | Motorola Inc. | Portable electronic device with an adaptable user interface |
US6630925B1 (en) * | 2000-10-31 | 2003-10-07 | Nokia Corporation | Double-sided keyboard having two keymats and one activation mat |
Cited By (22)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20030003956A1 (en) * | 2001-07-02 | 2003-01-02 | Tarmo Maenpaa | Complementing a portable telecommunication device with notepad capability |
US20030214535A1 (en) * | 2002-05-14 | 2003-11-20 | Motorola, Inc. | User interface for a messaging device and method |
US7359740B2 (en) * | 2002-08-02 | 2008-04-15 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Portable information processing apparatus |
US20040116167A1 (en) * | 2002-08-02 | 2004-06-17 | Kazutaka Okuzako | Portable information processing apparatus |
US7565186B2 (en) | 2002-08-02 | 2009-07-21 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Portable information processing apparatus |
US20080220821A1 (en) * | 2002-08-02 | 2008-09-11 | Kazutaka Okuzako | Portable information processing apparatus |
US20060128438A1 (en) * | 2002-10-03 | 2006-06-15 | Henrik Balle | Mobile device for displaying information content |
US20060116135A1 (en) * | 2003-10-09 | 2006-06-01 | Ure Michael J | Morphology-based text entry system |
US7181251B2 (en) * | 2003-10-22 | 2007-02-20 | Nokia Corporation | Mobile communication terminal with multi orientation user interface |
US20050090288A1 (en) * | 2003-10-22 | 2005-04-28 | Josef Stohr | Mobile communication terminal with multi orientation user interface |
US10063771B2 (en) | 2004-03-17 | 2018-08-28 | Sony Corporation | Electronic device and function assigning method |
US20070139533A1 (en) * | 2004-03-17 | 2007-06-21 | Sony Corporation | Electronic device and function assigning method |
US10992858B2 (en) | 2004-03-17 | 2021-04-27 | Sony Corporation | Electronic device and function assigning method |
US11356602B2 (en) * | 2004-03-17 | 2022-06-07 | Sony Group Corporation | Electronic device and function assigning method |
US20060179365A1 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2006-08-10 | Nokia Corporation | Method and apparatus for efficient scanning and operation in a wireless system |
US8326290B2 (en) * | 2005-02-07 | 2012-12-04 | Nokia Corporation | Method and apparatus for efficient scanning and operation in a wireless system |
US20060238962A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2006-10-26 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Hinge apparatus and portable terminal having the same |
US7532459B2 (en) | 2005-04-22 | 2009-05-12 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Hinge apparatus and portable terminal having the same |
EP1715660A1 (en) * | 2005-04-22 | 2006-10-25 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Hinge apparatus and portable terminal having the same |
US7859585B2 (en) * | 2005-05-30 | 2010-12-28 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd | Portable terminal having camera lens assembly |
US20060268142A1 (en) * | 2005-05-30 | 2006-11-30 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Portable terminal having camera lens assembly |
CN109101118A (en) * | 2018-08-10 | 2018-12-28 | 山东超越数控电子股份有限公司 | It is a kind of to combine the method and apparatus for realizing shortcut key based on character keys |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
ATE406032T1 (en) | 2008-09-15 |
DE60228440D1 (en) | 2008-10-02 |
WO2002096073A3 (en) | 2003-10-16 |
EP1393534A2 (en) | 2004-03-03 |
AU2002316906A1 (en) | 2002-12-03 |
EP1393534B1 (en) | 2008-08-20 |
US7054440B2 (en) | 2006-05-30 |
WO2002096073A2 (en) | 2002-11-28 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7054440B2 (en) | Method and apparatus for keypad representation in a mobile communication device | |
US7395081B2 (en) | Mobile telephone having a rotator input device | |
CN104731450B (en) | Device and method for showing user interface | |
CN100431324C (en) | Radiotelephone terminal with dual-sided keypad apparatus | |
KR100617821B1 (en) | User interfacing apparatus and method | |
US8780064B2 (en) | Mobile communication device capable of providing candidate phone number list and method of controlling operation of the mobile communication device | |
US6865400B2 (en) | User interfacing device for PDA/wireless terminal | |
GB2349725A (en) | Multi-function key for a portable phone | |
US8730173B2 (en) | Electronic device with predictive candidate selection based on character input | |
US20050124387A1 (en) | Portable apparatus user interface | |
US20060139328A1 (en) | Mobile communications terminal and a method therefor | |
WO2002031807A1 (en) | Data entry device | |
EP1303114B1 (en) | Portable terminal | |
US6943777B2 (en) | Electronic device with user interface capability and method therefor | |
US7705838B2 (en) | Movable user interface | |
RU2421773C2 (en) | Keyboard for electronic equipment and method of controlling said keyboard | |
US7848773B2 (en) | Mobile communication terminal having qwerty keys and method for outputting dual tone multi-frequency signal thereof | |
JP3782659B2 (en) | Mobile communication equipment | |
US20050280560A1 (en) | Key interface apparatus for easy key input and electronic device adaptable to the use of the same | |
JP2000236376A (en) | Portable telephone device | |
KR200369021Y1 (en) | a Mobile Communication Terminal Inputtable a Pointer | |
US20120154287A1 (en) | Handheld electronic device and display method for a handheld electronic device | |
KR20060019440A (en) | A mobile communication terminal inputtable a pointer and a operating method thereof | |
JP5475580B2 (en) | Portable electronic device and control method thereof | |
KR100800780B1 (en) | Method for inputting of key in complex mobile terminal |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET L M ERICSSON (PUBL), SWEDEN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SWERUP, JAN;NILSSON, LEIF;LINDELL, BO;REEL/FRAME:013108/0404;SIGNING DATES FROM 20020605 TO 20020612 |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.) |
|
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED FOR FAILURE TO PAY MAINTENANCE FEES (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: EXP.) |
|
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
|
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20180530 |